Ronaldo “Jacare” Souza, who is the featured attraction for the first Amazon Challenge, has shown once again that the current fight scene in Brazil is no longer the proper market for his skills.

The Brazilian jiu-jitsu specialist found himself looking for his sixth win in seven bouts when he faced veteran brawler Jose Ribamar. The experienced Ribamar was well aware that a victory over the likes of Souza would likely catapult him into the international spotlight, but could not overcome a poor fight plan in which he chose to engage the grappling specialist in close quarters.

Souza took advantage of this tactical error, taking Ribamar to the ground and pummeling him with violent strkes. Souza was relentless in his attack of Ribamar, throwing vicious punches until Ribamar could no longer maintain his guard. Then, at 3:28 into the first round, Souza applied an armbar that would end the fight.

Souza, who appears more than ready to compete on the international stage, has denied recent reports that have him signed to the UFC.

Souza has stated, “I have not signed with Zuffa, unlike what people have said on the Internet,” following the fight.

Another favorite in the Amazon Challenge, Daniel Trindade, of Associacao Trindade, lived up to expectations in the 176-pound tournament division. Although he is experienced with 24 bouts in his career thus far, Trindade remains a lesser known name in the MMA scene.

In the first round, Trindade made short work of his opponent, earning a stoppage due to strikes at 1:43.

In the finals he faced Yuri Fraga, who choked out Claudio Supa in the previous fight to earn a spot in the final.

Fraga appeared capable of handling Trindade in the finals, however, Trindade had different plans. Using his heavy blows and powerful striking ability, Trindade dropped Fraga 58 seconds into round three, earning knockout victory. In comments made following his victory, Trindade stated that he was more than ready to defend his title at the next Amazon Challenge event.

In the 155 pound division, Diego Ceara - a current Souza teammate - controlled the pace of his fight against Juarez ending the bout with a knockout at 1:27 in the opening round. Ceara then dispatched Trindade’s protege, Fabiano Jacarezinho, in the semifinals. He is set to face Jorge Clay this month for the belt.

The second Amazon Challenge will take place on October 27 and will showcase the finals of the 155-pound tournament and will boast a possible match-up in the 176-pound division between current champ Daniel Trindade defending his title against Adriano Martins, of Jungle FC.